COVID-19

How PerkinElmer is Helping Combat COVID-19

ViaCord is part of PerkinElmer, Inc., which is enabling science in the vital fight against COVID-19 – something critical to every family. PerkinElmer is working with diagnostic labs, clinics, hospitals, pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical labs and governmental and research institutes to combat the pandemic. Some areas where we are contributing: 

Communities 
PerkinElmer is helping fight COVID-19 by organizing and contributing to the more than $1 million of donated instruments and reagents to help test for the disease in critical locations around the world. 

 
Virus Detection 
PerkinElmer's new Coronavirus RT-PCR test received U.S. FDA Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) enabling clinical laboratories, certified under Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA), to use this PerkinElmer kit to detect SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. 

 
Antibody Testing
For the diagnostic of COVID-19, the Anti-SARS-CoV-2 ELISAs for immunoglobulin classes A and G from EUROIMMUN (a PerkinElmer company), have received CE mark and can now be applied to COVID-19 diagnostics. These tests may determine how quickly antibodies to the virus are made, which could help identify individuals who have developed immunity. 

Treatment Options
For pharmaceutical laboratories studying new drugs and vaccines or potentially re-purposing existing drugs for COVID-19, PerkinElmer provides a variety of instruments, reagents, software and services.

Update: Clinical Studies Using Cord Tissue Stem Cells in the Treatment of Covid-19

Clinical Research Studies are underway using stem cells from cord tissue in the treatment of Covid-19. ViaCord is closely monitoring all trials and studies and will provide updates as findings are released. Click on the studies below for more details: 

Coronavirus (COVID-19) Impact on Cord Blood & Tissue Banking

The coronavirus (COVID-19) is changing how we live our daily lives. We understand that beyond focusing on lifestyle changes to keep your family safe, your focus may be on the impact of COVID-19 on your pregnancy and ability to bank your newborn’s stem cells. Feel confident in knowing that ViaCord is doing everything possible to maintain business as usual.

During our twenty-five plus years of experience, we’ve navigated through unexpected events and uncertain times like this, with our customers always being the number one priority. During this time, we will strive to provide you with the most up-to-date and relevant information as it relates to banking your newborn's stem cells. Here are some important things to know:

What is ViaCord doing?
We’re working closely with hospitals, our courier team, and medical experts to ensure we’re following recommended guidelines and best practices. In addition, we’re continuously monitoring information being provided by leading organizations like the American Association of Blood Banks (AABB), CLIA, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), and the World Health Organization (WHO) to ensure we have the most recent and relevant information on hand.

ViaCord’s parent company, PerkinElmer, Inc., recently announced Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for PerkinElmer’s New Coronavirus RT-PCR test. It’s available to certified clinical laboratories in over 30 countries worldwide. In challenging times like this, we’re especially proud to be a part of PerkinElmer, Inc. and its mission. 

Can I still collect my baby’s stem cells?
Yes! According to the American College Of Gynecology (ACOG) on 3/23/20, “Respiratory diseases are typically not transmitted by the transfer of human cells. Currently, there are no reported cases of transmission of COVID-19 by blood products (FDA); therefore, umbilical cord blood banking can continue to be managed according to clinical guidance.”  

Will ViaCord still pick up my collection kit in my hospital room?
Hospital policies are changing daily. Many hospitals are now requesting that couriers pick up ViaCord Collection Kits in the lobby, rather than going to your room to retrieve it. We ask that you plan for this scenario, and that your partner help facilitate this request. Please also ensure that we have a cell phone number so we can help the hand-off go as smoothly as possible. ViaCord will coordinate with you and your hospital to get your baby’s cells to our Lab.

Is ViaCord’s Processing and Storage Laboratory Impacted by COVID-19?
ViaCord’s processing laboratory remains fully operational. Our specially trained lab technicians work round-the-clock to process and store cord blood and cord tissue stem cells as soon as they arrive at our doors. ViaCord processes every unit in a Class 10,000 cleanroom, which is designed to prevent airborne contamination. We follow best practices and guidelines provided by the AABB, FDA, and CLIA.

Is ViaCord financially sound during this turbulent economic time?
ViaCord’s parent company, PerkinElmer, Inc., was established in 1937 and has grown into a $2 billion global healthcare company. ViaCord has over 25 years of experience in cord banking and we are uniquely positioned to endure in the long-term.

What if I can’t make my payments?
We understand that many people are dealing with a sudden transition in their work and home lives. If you are experiencing financial difficulties, please contact our Accounts Receivable team at 800-991-2483. We are here to work with you. We are here to help when help is needed.

See more FAQs about cord blood and tissue banking